Why being a team player is good for your career

Being a team player is not a new concept. It’s something that’s drilled into us from an early age through team sports and dreaded group assignments.

The ability to work together is an important skill.

In an age where we’re increasingly being encouraged to develop our personal brand, it can sometimes feel like the idea of being a team player has been forgotten.

There are huge benefits to being known as a team player. It makes life easier; you get asked to work on exciting projects, and people will help you when needed.

But how can you develop this skill in a work environment?

Your immediate team

I have a personal motto: when someone gives you the opportunity to do them a favour, take it. It’s a chance to build a connection with them and learn more about their work.

I caution against feeling like they then owe you a favour, as this can build resentment. Instead, consider it an opportunity to develop your brand as a team player. 

Of course, if the relationship turns into a situation where you’re consistently helping them and there’s no reciprocation, you might want to reevaluate. Generally, jump in when someone asks for a helper to proof their work, arrive early to set up or take ownership of a new process!

Your broader organisation

Building relationships across your organisation will help you in the long run. It means that people will learn more about what you do and start coming to you earlier to get you on board for projects - win!

It might not seem like it, but there are usually heaps of opportunities to be a team player in a broader sense. 

The next time you work with someone outside your team, go the extra mile. Don’t just communicate through email; meet face to face or at least pick up the phone.

Be a visible presence in the office as much as possible and participate in organisation-wide events. 

I know some circumstances might mean you can’t always attend work in person, such as caring responsibilities, but think about how you might be able to do this more. I promise it will pay off. 

Your manager’s team

Managers have a role in supporting their team members, but it’s important to remember that this is a two-way street.

Consider how your actions show your manager you are a committed team member. If there is a task that they have asked everyone to do, such as populating a central document or completing mandatory training, make an effort to do it by the deadline they have set. 

If you’re the one person they don’t have to remind to get it done, I promise they will appreciate it. 

These small steps will help them build an image of you as someone who listens, takes responsibility and doesn’t need to be followed up. In the long run, it will show them that you’re capable of more responsibility and bigger opportunities.